How to pave over concrete

Start this project by choosing the right pavers for the area you'd like to spruce up. If the area tends to get a lot of sun, look for something that will feel nice and cool underfoot. If the area you’ve chosen is around a pool, make sure the pavers are non-slip. Natural stone pavers are great for areas with a lot of foot traffic and will guarantee longevity.

Make sure the concrete surface is smooth, with no big cracks or loose or broken pieces. Give the concrete a good sweep and wash with water to remove any dirt and debris. (Use a high-pressure washer or your garden hose.) Allow the area to dry thoroughly.

Once the concrete is completely dry, apply a concrete primer. This will give the pavers a better chance of sticking to the old concrete. Applying the primer is just like applying paint: cut in the edges first and fill in the remaining areas with a roller.

Plan out the pattern you’d like the pavers to form. Begin by laying the pavers down in the pattern you want, starting from the point closest to the wall and working your way out.

You’ll likely find that some pavers (especially near the edges) will need to be cut in order to fit the space. To cut a paver, set it up on a flat surface and use a tile cutter that can make wet cuts.

Tip: Make sure there is water in the reservoir, or the saw won’t work properly. If you don’t have this type of saw, you can always hire one in-store.

Measure where you’ll need to cut and draw a line using a set square to make sure the cut will be straight. Put the paver on the tile cutter and do a dry run with the machine switched off. (A dry run is test run used to determine the straightness of the cut without actually cutting into the tile). Once you’re satisfied that the cut will be straight, turn the machine on and cut slowly. Allow the machine to do all the work for you to get a cleaner cut.

Once you’re happy with the pattern and satisfied that all the pavers fit together well, stick them down. Use a notch trowel to apply adhesive to both the concrete and the pavers. Remember to use spacers to make sure the gaps between each paver are even.

Once all the pavers are laid down, start applying the grout with a grout float. Mix up your grout mix in a bucket with water.

Tip: Allow the grout to sit for five minutes before you begin grouting.

Using a grout float, push the grout mixture into the gaps between the pavers, trying to create as few air bubbles as possible. Once the gaps are all filled in, use a sponge dipped in water to wash the remaining grout off the pavers.

For more renovation inspiration, watch Episode 2: House facade and garden renovation in our Make It Happen: The House Project series.